Sheffield doctor issues advice to parents on taking children to hospital during coronavirus crisis

Dr Edward Snelson, a consultant in paediatric emergency medicine at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, urges parents to seek help if their child is unwell, reminding them “from emergency medicine to mental health care, we are still here to support you.”

During the two-minute video - which has already racked up thousands of views since it was posted on the hospital’s social media on Saturday morning - Dr Snelson says: “We appreciate the fact that people are doing all they can to stay away during the coronavirus pandemic, and that’s certainly helping, but we want to make sure you know that you can come to see us if you need to.

“It’s often possible to treat minor illnesses at home, and get advice from 111 or your local pharmacy, but in some cases, when a child is seriously unwell, it’s important to come to hospital.

“If you think your child may have a serious or life threatening illness or injury, we still want you to come to hospital, and it’s fine to do this.

“We have protective equipment in place to protect people, so don’t be surprised if you turn up and we’re all wearing masks, and gowns and gloves.

“If you’re not sure whether you should be coming to hospital, you can call 111 for advice, though they’re very busy at the moment, or get in touch with your own GP for a discussion about what is best to do.

“Please stay safe.”

Visit www.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk for details.